Lake Manyara Travel Guide

Lake Manyara lies at the foot of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Although the park covers only about 330 square kilometers, you pass through thick groundwater forest, open grassland and lakeshore in a short drive.

The Famous Tree-Climbing Lions

Manyara's lions are known for resting in the branches of trees, something lions rarely do elsewhere, and nobody is completely sure why. You can't count on seeing them on every visit, but they remain the park's most famous residents.

A Paradise for Birds

More than a third of the park is lake. When the water level is right, flamingos gather along the shore, and hundreds of other bird species make Manyara a favorite with birdwatchers.

When to Go

June to October is best for general game viewing. November to May is usually better for birds and flamingos, as the water levels change through the year.

How to Get There

It is about 90 minutes by road from Arusha and lies on the way to Ngorongoro and the Serengeti, so most travelers visit on their way through.